QPR boss Mark Hughes saluted Jamie Mackie for overcoming the psychological as well as the physical scars to put in a superb late two-goal cameo at Blackburn on Saturday.

It was during an FA Cup tie at Ewood Park last January that Mackie broke his leg, leading to a nine-month lay-off.

Mackie found himself on the bench for his first Rovers return since that painful day, but put any negative thoughts to the back of his mind as his brace in the final 20 minutes almost earned QPR a point.

Hughes said: “That was an important performance for Jamie, personally speaking, as he has come through some bad times

“It was impressive, given his circumstances, that he had a such a positive effect. He came on and gave us the energy and willingness we needed.

“Jamie has been unlucky not to be in the side, he has done very well. He lost his place as I wanted to see Shaun Wright-Phillips play in his natural position, but Jamie can play out wide or in the middle, giving us options.”